THE parents of a former Argus vendor who died suddenly aged just 36 paid tribute to a “wonderful son” who loved life.

Dominic Emms, of Rhiwderin, died in his sleep on Wednesday, July 20. He had suffered with deep vein thrombosis for many years.

The well-known rugby linesman had been a touch judge for many clubs, including Pill Harriers and rugby league team Newport Titans, since he gained his refereeing qualification aged just 18.

After leaving school he went on to complete a degree in sport, leisure and tourism at Swansea Institute.

When he finished, the former St Mary’s Primary School pupil worked for the Argus for two years from 2000 selling papers in Commercial Street and Cwmbran town centre – a job which his father, Raymond, 71, said he loved.

He said: “He was very happy, he didn’t call it a stand – it was his office.

“He loved meeting people and would have liked to be a sports reporter.”

After leaving the Argus, Mr Emms, who was registered deaf frombirth, got a job working at Newport’s patent office, where he gained an NVQ in business studies.

But his real passion was sport and he loved watching everything from darts and speedway to Gaelic football and hurling.

He developed an interest in rugby thanks to his grandfather, FrankEmms, who played for Pill Harriers, and took his job as touch judge very seriously.

His mum, Rosemarie, 72, said: “He was a very fair judge and didn’t like to see injustices on the field. He was a very caring and thoughtful person who will be sorely missed.”

His father added: “He had a short, sharp life but he didn’t miss out on anything, he loved life.”

Mr Emms’ funeral takes place at St Michael’s Church, Pill, at 1pm tomorrow, followed by committal at St Woolos cemetery. Mourners are asked to wear club ties.